A Peaceful
Return to the Sea
Attended and unattended ash scattering ceremonies with compassionate guidance, EPA-compliant filing, and complete documentation for your family.
Choose the Path
That Feels Right
Every family is different. Whether you join us at sea or let our captain carry your wishes, the farewell will be handled with care.
Unattended Scattering
For families near or farThe captain performs a dignified scattering ceremony on your behalf, with a moment of reflection at sea. Ideal for families who cannot travel or prefer a simpler arrangement.
- Photos upon request
- GPS coordinates provided
- Scattering certificate included
- Get a quote now
Attended Ceremony
Family present on boardA private ash scattering cruise for family and friends. Ceremonies include time for music, readings, prayer, and a personal farewell approximately 3 miles offshore.
- Up to 6 passengers
- 90–120 minutes at sea
- Captain-led or family-led
- Personalize with flowers & music
EPA-Compliant Filing
Required documentation filed within 30 days of service
GPS Coordinates
Exact latitude and longitude recorded for your family
Remains Transfer
Free USPS shipping kit or local drop-off by appointment
Flower Options
Rose sprays, loose roses, and wreaths available to add
Planning ahead? We offer preplanning with clear pricing and simple paperwork.
Learn about preplanning →A Gentle Process
from Shore to Sea
The entire process is designed to be calm and straightforward. From scheduling to final paperwork, each step is handled with care so your family can focus on remembrance.
Choose a Service
Select either an attended or unattended sea scattering package and schedule by phone or online.
Transfer the Remains
Send cremated remains using the provided shipping kit or use local drop-off and pickup options by appointment.
Personalize the Ceremony
Add readings, music, prayers, flowers, and other personal touches to create a meaningful farewell at sea.
Scattering at Sea
The captain conducts the ceremony approximately 3 nautical miles offshore, with family attendance available on attended packages.
Receive Final Documents
You receive coordinates and a scattering certificate, and we file the required EPA notice within 30 days.
Peaceful Farewells
with Clear Guidance
Serene Sea Burials serves families from Carolina Beach with attended and unattended ash scattering services designed for simplicity, dignity, and peace of mind.
Attended packages include a private vessel experience for up to six passengers and typically run 90 to 120 minutes offshore, with time for readings, prayer, flowers, and reflection.
Each service includes documented coordinates and required EPA notification filing. Families receive certificates and records after the ceremony for both remembrance and compliance.
A calm, respectful process can make an overwhelming moment feel manageable for the whole family.
Words from Those
Who Know
“It was genuinely a celebration of my grandmother's life, and I couldn't have imagined it any other way. Captain Tony and his mate were not only exceptionally kind but also recorded the ceremony, a precious memento our entire family will treasure. Thank you!”
“I've organized funerals and cremations for loved ones before, but none have been as straightforward and serene as this entire process. The beautiful sunset added to the peacefulness, making it a day we'll cherish forever.”
“The celebration of my mother's life was truly beautiful. The preparation, the ceremony, and the subsequent follow-up were exceptional in every way. Captain Tony, thank you for conducting the ceremony with such dignity and respect. I highly recommend Serene Sea Burials to anyone in need of these services.”
“Captain Tony and his team ensured our experience was both stress-free and exceptionally memorable! Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy, but this unique experience made our celebration of their life truly special and serene.”
Answers to Help
Guide You Forward
Yes. Burial at sea is legal when handled under EPA rules. For cremated remains, scattering is performed at least 3 nautical miles from shore. We manage the required compliance steps for each service.
Sea scattering is conducted approximately 3 nautical miles offshore in accordance with federal requirements.
Attended services are structured for an intimate experience and can accommodate up to 6 passengers.
Most attended ash scattering services are approximately 90 to 120 minutes from departure to return.
Yes. Unattended options are available for families who cannot be on board. The captain performs the service respectfully and documentation is provided afterward.
Families may use a provided shipping kit with USPS Priority Mail Express, or coordinate local drop-off and pickup options by appointment.
You receive a sea scattering certificate and location details. EPA notification is also submitted within the required 30-day timeframe.
Have a question we haven't answered?
Contact our team →Guidance & Insights
The True Cost of Saying Goodbye
The average traditional funeral now costs between $10,000 and $15,000. For many families, this financial burden arrives at their most vulnerable moment. Sea burial offers a dignified, meaningful alternative — at a fraction of the cost.
A Legal, Dignified Farewell
Sea burial is a fully legal, federally regulated process governed by the EPA. Many families are surprised to learn how straightforward it is — especially when you have a provider who manages every requirement on your behalf.
What to Expect on the Day
Many families tell us the same thing before their ceremony: they are not sure what to expect. This guide walks you through the day from arrival to return, so your family can focus entirely on being together.
The Ocean as a Final Resting Place
Something is shifting in how Americans think about death, legacy, and the environment. Sea burial sits at the center of that shift — and the families choosing it are doing so for reasons that go far deeper than cost.
We're Here
Whenever You
Are Ready
Ask questions, request a shipping kit, or arrange a ceremony. We keep the process clear, respectful, and easy to navigate for every family.
Let's Talk About This
All inquiries are kept strictly confidential.
We respond as soon as possible during business hours.